Jean Chen Smith is a freelance journalist who is passionate about storytelling and curating authentic travel experiences. Based in Oregon with a love of the great outdoors, she has contributed to The Oregonian, Travel + Leisure, SFGATE, Insider Travel, 1859, AARP, and more. When not writing and traveling, she is following her other passions which include Pilates, trail running, and spending time with her shih tzus Tonka and Paisley.